Introduction
They are often underdiagnosed and can make allergic rhinitis or allergic asthma worse.
Symptoms
- Repeated sneezing
- Runny or blocked nose
- Itchy nose
- Red, watery or itchy eyes
- Chronic cough
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Symptoms worse in damp places
- Fatigue, poor sleep
Causes
- Alternaria
- Cladosporium
- Aspergillus
- Penicillium
- Bathrooms
- Cellars
- Kitchens
- Poorly ventilated homes
- Spaces with leaks or damp
Diagnosis
- Detailed history (home, damp, visible mould)
- Link between symptoms and exposure
- ENT and respiratory examination
- Appropriate allergy tests (skin prick tests, blood tests)
- Assessment for associated asthma if needed
Treatments
- Reducing exposure (treating damp, ventilation)
- Removing visible sources of mould
- Antihistamines
- Nasal corticosteroids
- Treatment of associated asthma if present
- Lasting environmental measures
- Desensitisation possible in selected cases
- lasting control of symptoms
Management
Confirm the mould allergy
Identify sources in your environment
Optimise measures to clean up your home
Tailor medical treatment
Significantly improve your quality of life